And it might have been even better but for Edin Dzeko’s equaliser three minutes later.

Ireland went into their seventh play-off in 19 years looking to secure their place in France for next summer’s finals.

Boss O’Neill’s tactics were clear from the off as the visitors sat back when in possession and passed it around at the back.

That brought plenty of boos and jeers from the home crowd who were not impressed.

Threat Bosnia were the only side showing any attacking threat and Vedad Ibisevic fired into the side-netting early on.

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The worst football kits ever

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Wycombe goalie kit 2017/18

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GUTTED: Republic of Ireland couldn't hold on to their valuable lead

The 850 Irish fans who made the trip were having very little to cheer about as their side failed to register a single attempt on goal in the first half.

Ervin Zukanovic should have put the hosts in front before the break, but he headed straight at keeper Darren Randolph.

At least Dzeko was quiet in the opening 45 minutes before a thick fog descended on the ground at the break. The restart also brought about Ireland’s first attempt.

But Glenn Whelan couldn’t get his shot on target as Ireland looked to get a crucial away goal ahead of Monday’s second leg.

Ireland were clearly missing the attacking threat of Shane Long, who scored that famous winner against Germany in the group stages.

The Southampton striker has not played since picking up a foot injury in the Poland defeat which consigned them to his two-legged affair.

Wes Hoolahan was next to threaten for the visitors but his weak shot was easily saved by Asmir Begovic despite conditions worsening.

Brady finally broke the deadlock, firing in from just inside the Bosnia penalty box. Randolph then had to save Ireland as he pulled off a good stop to deny Senad Lulic but Dzeko turned in the equaliser from 12 yards.